A Service Learning Experience Presented by: Sandra Wernstrom Endurance Adventure A Service Learning Experience Presented by: Sandra Wernstrom

Endurance Adventure An afterschool Program which offers: Team building strategies Building leadership skills Improving quality of life through healthy lifestyle choices Parental involvement opportunities Supervised by a Master’s prepared guidance counselor e (Endurance Adventure, 2015)

Volunteer Role Develop a power point reflecting proper nutrition for young athletes Lead a small group of children during team building events Present lessons developed by the Endurance Adventure program (Endurance Adventure, 2015)

Critical Reflection Information obtained Change in thought process Assumption Initial Thought Just Another task A babysitting program Team building and healthy lifestyle choices Partnering with schools positively impacts the future

Synthesis to BSN Outcomes Collaborative Leadership Leadership skills Enhances Confidence Generalist Nursing Practice Increased knowledge of social injustice Improves knowledge on barriers to healthy lifestyle choices Scholarship Enhances educational experience Depth to RN to BSN program (Ferris State University, 2015) (Groh, Stallwood, & Daniels, 2011)

Implement Evidence based research to improve community programs Recommendations Continue to work with community programs which promotes healthy lifestyle choices Implement Evidence based research to improve community programs Promote Parent involvement to incorporate healthy lifestyle choices within the family unit

Conclusion Research reveals that service learning is vital to the learning process, and demonstrates the importance of connecting with society in a role that has “…meaning to the community served” (Ferris State University, 2015). Participating in a service learning based education enriches the learning experience and helps fill a vital role in the community (Bowen, 2007). Seeking opportunities to volunteer in the community demonstrates a commitment to strengthen our society and build a positive future.

References Bowen, G. (2007). How service learning fosters synthesis and prepares students for careers. Career Journal, 5(2). Retrieved from: http://www.wcu.edu Endurance Adventure. (2015). Retrieved from www.enduranceadventure.org Ferris State University. (2015). Purpose of academic service learning. Retrieved from: http://www.ferris.edu/asl Groh, C., Stallwood, L., & Daniels, J. (2011). Service learning in nursing education: It’s impact on leadership and social justice. National League of Nursing, 32(6). Doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.5480/1536-5026-32.6.400